DECEMBER 13, 2017

DECEMBER 13, 2017

Posted on: January 3rd, 2018 by MCA

Illinois’ primary election is less than 100 days away and several of the gubernatorial candidates are reporting record-breaking amounts of campaign funds. Governor Rauner currently has over $65 million available after raising more than $72 million. JB Pritzker, Democratic candidate and heir to the Hyatt Hotels chain, has self-funded to the tune of more than $42 million and has $21 million available. Both Governor Rauner and Mr. Pritzker have spent a significant amount of money on television ads which have been running statewide for some time.

Governor Rauner’s primary opponent, Representative Jeanne Ives (R-Wheaton), only recently declared her candidacy. It will be an uphill fight for Representative Ives, who has less than $500,000. at this time. However, her staunchly conservative platform is to the right of Governor Rauner’s and she is likely to draw significant support away from the Governor on issues such as immigration.

The remaining viable candidates for the Democratic primary nomination are Christopher Kennedy and Senator Daniel Biss. Senator Biss (D-Evanston) has raised about $3.7 million and has $2.8 million on hand. Mr. Kennedy has raised about $3.1 million and has about $1.6 million on hand. Mr. Kennedy and Senator Biss are expected to begin airing campaign commercials after the New Year.